Mission and objectives

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) works to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. In Côte d’Ivoire, UNDP supports national efforts to achieve inclusive, resilient, and sustainable economic growth by focusing on governance, environmental sustainability, social cohesion, and innovation. Recognizing the role of entrepreneurship and private sector engagement in driving transformation, UNDP promotes initiatives that empower youth and women to become key actors in the country's development. In response to structural economic challenges and demographic pressures, UNDP fosters the structural transformation of the Ivorian economy by supporting job creation, digitalization, and innovation. The organization works closely with national and local authorities, civil society, academia, and the private sector to design and implement high-impact development programmes aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Among its flagship initiatives are UNIPOD (University Innovation Pods) and Timbuktoo, which aim to strengthen innovation ecosystems and connect young entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and financing. UNIPODs serve as university-based hubs for creativity and technological experimentation, while Timbuktoo is a pan-African programme designed to attract $1 billion in investment for startups across the continent. UNDP also promotes Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), impact investing, and Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as mechanisms for inclusive growth. These approaches enable the mobilization of private capital and expertise in support of national development priorities. Overall, UNDP Côte d’Ivoire seeks to unlock the potential of youth and women through inclusive entrepreneurship and innovation, while facilitating an enabling environment for responsible private sector involvement. By leveraging cross-sectoral partnerships and data-driven strategies, UNDP aims to accelerate the country’s progress toward a sustainable and equitable future.

Context

Côte d'Ivoire, with an average economic growth of 6% between 2021 and 2024, is an economic driver in West Africa. Growth, mainly supported by private consumption and public investment, remained resilient despite the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy. The country is, however, facing structural challenges. Despite these performances, Côte d'Ivoire must meet the challenge of structural transformation of its economy, capable of inducing the transfer of means and resources to the most productive sectors and achieving sustainable, inclusive and job-creating economic growth. This perspective requires increased involvement of the private sector, which is an essential lever for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and economic transformation in Africa. In a context of rapid population growth and accelerating technological innovation, businesses play a key role in creating jobs, investing in sustainable solutions, and strengthening the financial and economic inclusion of youth and women. UNDP in Côte d'Ivoire, through its programmatic cooperation framework, is committed to mobilizing the private sector to drive inclusive, sustainable and resilient growth. Among its flagship initiatives is the Entrepreneurial Innovation Program for Youth and Women implemented in partnership with the Government of Côte d'Ivoire. UNDP-Côte d'Ivoire also intends to benefit from the Timbuktoo Programme, which aims to transform the African entrepreneurial ecosystem by attracting $1 billion in private and institutional investment, and the University Innovation Pods (UNIPODs), innovation hubs established in African universities to support startups and promote their access to finance. As part of its innovation support program, UNDP Côte d'Ivoire is working to stimulate private investment in youth-led solutions. UNIPOD (University Innovation Pods) and the Timbuktoo program are major levers for catalyzing talent, supporting startups and promoting their access to financing. The mission is to strengthen the links between these university platforms and the private sector, to encourage co-innovation, incubation and the mobilization of impact financing. In this context, the UNDP Country Office in Côte d'Ivoire is seeking for a UNV Entrepreneurship & Innovation Analyst to support private sector engagement in youth innovation and entrepreneurship through the UNIPOD and Timbuktoo initiatives. He/She will contribute to building strategic partnerships, mobilizing financing for startups, and designing CSR projects aligned with the SDGs. The volunteer will assist in organizing mentorship programs, facilitating business-university dialogues, and monitoring and evaluating the impact of activities. This assignment offers a hands-on learning opportunity in co-developing a dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Task Description

Under the direct supervision of Deputy Resident Representative, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: 1. Support for private sector mobilization around the UNIPOD and Timbuktoo initiatives • Contribute to the design of a private sector engagement plan targeting technology, banking, and industrial stakeholders. • Support the organization of business-university meetings for co-developing innovative solutions. • Assist in the creation of privately funded mentorship programmes. 2. Support for the development of financing mechanisms for startups • Participate in identifying funding opportunities through venture capital, impact loans, and grants. • Contribute to the analysis of inclusive financial models for young entrepreneurs. 3. Promotion of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) • Assist in developing CSR projects focused on social innovation and the digital economy. • Help document best practices in PPPs. 4. Monitoring and evaluation of initiatives • Contribute to tracking performance indicators of business-university collaborations. • Draft analysis notes and impact reports on private sector engagement. In line with the recommended tandem approach, the International UN Volunteer will collaborate closely with a National UN Volunteer currently serving within the UNDP Country Office in Côte d’Ivoire, as Innovation and entrepreneurship Specialist. The National UNV is engaged on innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives and will provide complementary support to ensure synergies between local context knowledge and international best practices. While the International UN Volunteer’s assignment is designed to be fully operational independently, this collaboration is expected to maximize impact, facilitate learning exchange, and enhance the sustainability of interventions targeting youth entrepreneurship and private sector engagement. Furthermore, UN Volunteers are required to: • Strengthen their knowledge and understanding of the concept of volunteerism by reading relevant UNV and external publications and take active part in UNV activities (for instance in events that mark International Volunteer Day); • Be acquainted with and build on traditional and/or local forms of volunteerism in the host country; • Reflect on the type and quality of voluntary action that they are undertaking, including participation in ongoing reflection activities; • Contribute articles/write-ups on field experiences and submit them for UNV publica-tions/websites, newsletters, press releases, etc.; • Assist with the UNV Buddy Programme for newly-arrived UN Volunteers; • Promote or advise local groups in the use of online volunteering, or encourage relevant local individuals and organizations to use the UNV Online Volunteering service whenever technically possible.

Competencies and values

Accountability Adaptability and Flexibility Building Trust Client Orientation Commitment and Motivation Communication Creativity Planning and Organizing Self-Management Working in Teams

Living conditions and remarks

Security Abidjan is a dynamic metropolis where the security situation is generally stable, but there is a risk of urban crime (theft, scams, assaults), particularly in certain neighbourhoods. International residents are recommended to adopt safety precautions such as avoiding risk areas, travelling by secure taxi, and being vigilant against scams. The national security situation can evolve and requires regular fol-low-up to the recommendations of the United Nations and local authorities. Access and air travel Abidjan is well served by international flights via Félix-Houphouët-Boigny airport, which is a regional hub. Several international airlines operate regular flights to Europe, Africa and other continents. In the interior of the country, the road network is relatively developed, although some roads may be in poor condition or require increased caution when travelling. Climate The climate in Côte d'Ivoire is tropical, characterized by a rainy season (April to October) with abun-dant rainfall and a dry season (November to March) marked by the harmattan, a dry wind coming from the Sahara. Temperatures generally vary between 25°C and 35°C with high humidity, which may require adaptation for those unaccustomed to tropical climates. Cultural Awareness Côte d'Ivoire is a culturally rich and diverse country with more than 60 ethnic groups. Ivorian society is tolerant but attached to certain traditional values. A respectful dress code is recommended, espe-cially during business or official interactions. Alcohol consumption is accepted, but a responsible attitude is expected. Cost of living The cost of living in Abidjan is relatively high compared to other cities in the sub-region. Housing, imported food, and quality health services come at a significant cost, although more affordable al-ternatives exist for those who adapt to local options. Accommodation Options Expats often prefer secure residential areas such as Cocody, Marcory, Zone 4 and Riviera. Rents can be high, especially for furnished and secure housing. It is recommended that you be well informed before signing a lease. Availability of food, water and electricity Abidjan offers a wide variety of local and imported food products, with many supermarkets and traditional markets. Running water is usually available, but it is advisable to consume filtered or bot-tled water. Electricity and water cuts may occur, although privileged residential areas are less affect-ed. Medical Facilities Medical infrastructure varies in quality. There are private clinics offering a good level of care, but the costs can be high. Access to specialized and emergency care may be limited, and it is highly recom-mended to have health insurance that covers medical evacuation if needed. Banking Banking services are well developed with local and international institutions present in Abidjan. Card transactions are possible at many locations, although cash is still common for some transactions. Access to ATMs is widespread, but it is advisable to be vigilant when withdrawing. Communication infrastructure Côte d'Ivoire has a good telecommunications network with easy access to high-speed internet and mobile telephony. Several operators offer competitive plans, although network stability may vary by area. Conclusion Côte d'Ivoire is a unique country and UNDP is an international organization offering a stimulating and enriching professional environment. However, life in Abidjan requires a mature level of cultural awareness, as well as an ability to adapt to the challenges of everyday life. Flexibility, endurance, and commitment are essential for living and working in an environment where some physical diffi-culties and limited comfort may be encountered. Those who are open and resilient will find it a most rewarding professional and human experience.